Formation of hydrogels and use of hydrogels

ABSTRACT

A composition includes at least one hydrophilic polymer containing primary (—NH 2 ) and/or secondary (—NHR) amine groups and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function. A method of increasing the strength of paper includes the step of contacting the paper with a composition comprising (i) at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function. A hydrogel composition is formed from a mixture of at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/410,375, entitled FORMATION OF HYDROGELS AND USE OF HYDROGELS TO INCREASE THE STRENGTH OF PAPER filed Sep. 13, 2002 under United States Express Mail Label No. EL903257455US and having the attorney docket No. 02-017 P, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. No serial number is currently available for that provisional patent application.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the formation of hydrogels, and, especially, to formation of hydrogels suitable to increase the strength (that is, wet and/or dry strength) of paper and to methods of increasing the strength of paper using such hydrogels.

[0003] For many years, the paper-making industry has sought ways of increasing the strength of paper. In that regard, papers fabricated without some additional means of reinforcement thereof can fall apart upon wetting or when subjected to mechanical stress in the dry state. Typically, a material is added to the wet pulp to improve the strength thereof during the formation of sheets prior to ultimate drying. Maintaining paper strength upon wetting is desirable in many applications, including bathroom tissue, paper towels, napkins, and the like. Moreover, additives which increase the strength of a wet paper often increase the dry strength of that paper. Increased dry strength is desirable, for example, in various packaging applications.

[0004] A number of wet- and dry-strength increasing additives are known in the art. However, such compositions typically include one or more components which are environmentally unfriendly or even toxic.

[0005] For example, some wet-strength additives are condensation products of urea and formaldehyde. Polyamine can be added to make such resins cationic. Other wet-strength additives include organochlorine crosslinked amidoamine compounds. A discussion of wet-strength additives and their mechanisms is presented in “The 65 Mechanism of Wet-Strength Development in Paper: A Review,” by Herbert H. ESPY, Tappi Journal, Vol. 78, No. 4, pages 90-97 (April 199 as well as in “Chemistry of Paper Wet-Strength. I. A Survey of Mechanisms of WetStrength Development,” by Lars WESTFELT, Cellulose Chemistry and Technology, Vol. 13, pages 813-825 (1979), the contents of which are incorporated by reference as though set forth in full herein.

[0006] Chemical compositions purported to increase paper wet strength while being chemically benign or environmentally friendly are set froth in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,497, which describes a composition including (a) a water-soluble polymeric material comprising at least one nucleophilic polymer, (b) a phenolic compound (phenols or polyphenols) and (c) a component (an oxidizing agent) capable of converting the phenolic compound into a quinone compound. Sugars in conjunction with their corresponding oxidases are contemplated as potential oxidizing agents for the phenolic component of the composition of U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,497. Many phenolic compound, however, are environmentally undesirable. Moreover, many oxidizing agents are also environmentally undesirable (for example, potassium dichromate and potassium permanganate).

[0007] It thus remains desirable to develop improved, environmentally friendly compositions for increasing paper wet and/or dry strength.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] In one aspect, the present invention provides a composition comprising at least one hydrophilic polymer containing primary (—NH₂) and/or secondary (—NHR) amine groups (that is, hydrophilic polymer contains or includes at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group) and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function. In general, the R substituent upon the secondary amine is not limited. Strong electron withdrawing groups are not preferred as such groups can reduce the nucleophilic nature of the secondary amine. In many cases, R is an alkyl group. The amine groups can be pendant groups on the polymer or incorporated into the polymer backbone. In general, the hydrophilic polymer must include at least two amine groups (per a polymer chain) to enable crosslinking.

[0009] Such an amine functional polymer/reducible saccharide combination has been found to undergo an unexpected cross-linking reaction upon the application of heat. The compositions of the present invention can, for example, be used as cross-linked hydrogels in paper strengthening applications. The polymers used in the compositions of the present invention can be homopolymers and/or copolymers (which are polymerized from two or more dissimilar monomers) and the term “polymer” as used herein encompasses both homopolymers and copolymers.

[0010] Polymers suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, partially hydrolyzed poly(N-vinylformamide) (that is, a copolymer of NVF and vinylamine), partially hydrolyzed vinyl acetate/NVF copolymer (that is, a polymer with vinyl acetate, vinyl alcohol, NVF and vinylamine repeat units); hydrolyzed acrylonitrile/NVF copolymer; (available as a commercial product from Mitsubishi and containing acrylonitrile, acrylamide, amidine, NVF and vinylamine units), amine functional polyacrylamide (for example, prepared via Hoffman degradation of polyacrylamide), acrylic acid/vinylamine copolymer, maleic anhydride/maleic acid copolymers with NVF/vinylamine, NVF/vinylamine polymers with vinyl sulfonate comonomer units, allylamine/diallylamine polymers and copolymers, urea/formaldehyde and melamine/formaldehyde condensation polymers, amidoamine polymers (prepared from dicarboxylic acids and polyfunctional amines), amine/epichlorohydrin polymers, poly(ethyleneimine), and hydrolyzed or partially hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline). One hydrophilic polymer or a mixture of two or more such polymers can be used in compositions of the present invention.

[0011] In general, polymers having a broad range of number average molecular weight (Mw) are suitable for use in the present invention. Preferably, the molecular weight of the polymers is at least approximately 500. More preferably, the molecular is in the range of approximately 30,000 to approximately 100,000. Polymers having molecular weight in excess of 100,000 can be used, but water solubility typically decreases for such polymers as molecular weight increases beyond approximately 100,000.

[0012] The reducible saccharides used in the present invention can be monosaccharides, disaccharides, trisaccharides etc, (for example, sugars) or polysaccharides (for example, starch or cellulose). Polysaccharides are typically a combination of nine or more monosaccharides. Reducible saccharides or reducing saccharides include a reducing group, function or functionality which is typically an aldehyde group (—C(O)H) or a hemiacetal group

[0013] which is another form of an aldehyde when the saccharide is in a cyclic conformation. Examples of reducing saccharides suitable for use in the present invention include, but are not limited to, the sugars glucose, lactose, and 2-deoxy-D-ribose. To decrease costs, the saccharide is preferably a monosaccharide (for example, glucose), a disaccharide (for example, lactose) or a polysaccharide (for example, starch).

[0014] The composition can, for example, further include a base. Examples of suitable bases include, but are not limited to, sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia or calcium carbonate.

[0015] In one embodiment, the polymer is a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol. Preferably, the copolymer is at least 0.5% by weight of vinyl amine. More preferably, the copolymer is at least 3% by weight of vinyl amine. Even more preferably, the copolymer is at least 6% by weight of vinyl amine. Copolymers having well in excess of 6% by weight of vinyl amine are suitable for use in the present invention. In several embodiments for example, copolymer can be at least 12% by weight of vinyl amine.

[0016] A broad range of mole ratios of amine to reducing saccharide is suitable for use in the present invention. In one embodiment, the mole ratio of amine groups to reducing saccharide is in the range of approximately 1:4 to approximately 8:1. In general, increasing amine content results in stiffening of the resultant gel. One skilled in the art can readily determine an appropriate amine content for a desired set of properties for the resultant gel.

[0017] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of increasing the strength of paper including the step of contacting the paper with a composition as described above. In one embodiment, wet paper pulp and the composition are contacted at a temperature below approximately 50° C., or more typically, at room temperature or below (that is, at approximately 25° C. or below) and subsequently heated to induce gelling. For example, the paper and the composition can be heated to a temperature of at least 50°, at least 70° or at least 90°.

[0018] In still another aspect, the present invention provides a hydrogel composition formed from a mixture of at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function.

[0019] The compositions and methods of the present invention substantially increase both the wet and dry strength of paper. The compositions can also be used as, for example, strengthening additives in other materials. The compositions of the present invention can be added as gels, the components to form the gels or as a pre-gel made by the partial reaction of the polymer(s) or copolymer(s) and the reducible saccharide component(s). No oxidizing agents, phenolic compounds, formaldehyde or organohalo compounds are required in the compositions and methods of the present invention. In general, no environmentally undesirable components are used in the compositions and methods of the present invention.

[0020] Thus, in a further aspect, the present invention provides a composition consisting of at least one hydrophilic polymer containing primary and/or secondary amine groups and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function. In another embodiment, the composition can also include a base as described above.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021]FIG. 1 illustrates a study of gel time at various temperatures for a composition including a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol (6 wt % vinyl amine) and D-glucose at a 1:1 sugar/copolymer ratio.

[0022]FIG. 2 illustrates the effect of addition of base upon gel time.

[0023]FIG. 3 illustrates a study of gel time at various sugar:copolymer ratios for a composition including a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol and D-glucose.

[0024]FIG. 4 illustrates a study of gel time at various sugar: copolymer ratios for a composition including a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol and lactose.

[0025]FIG. 5 illustrates the viscosity of a composition including a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol (6 wt % vinyl amine) and D-glucose at a 1:1 sugar/copolymer ratio as a function of time.

[0026]FIG. 6 sets froth a schematic representation of a Maillard reaction.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] As discussed above, during paper processing, material is added to the wet pulp to improve the strength during the formation of sheets prior to ultimate drying. Preferably, the additive material or composition exhibits a low viscosity during addition (to fully absorb into the pulp), then cures as temperature increases. Because paper comes into intimate contact with people, the strength-enhancing material is preferably relatively environmentally benign.

[0028] In the present invention, environmentally friendly or benign hydrogels are used to increase the wet strength (as well as the dry strength) of paper. When individual polymer chains interact, chemical or physical crosslinking may occur. This crosslinking results in a three-dimensional highly branched network of polymers. When these networks become swollen with water they form hydrophilic gels, known as hydrogels. Hydrogels possess unique physical properties having attributes of both solids and liquids. Solid-like properties can be attributed to the strength of the crosslinked polymer networks. Whereas, fluid like properties result from the fact that the hydrogel is composed of, for example, over 80% water. The dual nature of their physical properties makes hydrogels particularly interesting and useful, in both industry and research.

[0029] The present inventors have discovered that water soluble polymers having primary and/or secondary amine groups form hydrogels in the presence of a reducing saccharide such as a reducing sugar. Reducing sugars are sometimes referred to herein simply as sugars.

[0030] Several examples of the present invention are described using compositions including polymers with vinyl amine repeat groups and at least one of several reducing sugars. Vinyl amine homopolymer was found to form hydrogels in the presence of a reducing sugar. Moreover, copolymers of vinyl amine and at least one other monomer were also found to form hydrogels in the presence of a reducing sugar. In many instances, use of a copolymer of vinyl amine and at least one other monomer is preferable to use of a vinyl amine homopolymer in the present invention given the expense of the vinyl amine monomer. In a number of studies of the present invention, representative copolymers of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol were used. Such copolymer are also sometimes referred to herein as poly(vinylalcohol)/poly(vinylamine) or PVOH/PVAm copolymers.

[0031] Aqueous solutions of poly(vinylalcohol)/poly(vinylamine) copolymer and a number of sugars were found to gel readily at temperatures between approximately 50 and 100° C. In a series of initial experiments, known amounts of sugars were mixed with a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol (12 wt % vinyl amine) to form a 40% solution (in water) by weight. The mixtures were heated to various temperatures and held for varying lengths of time. Gelation was determined to be the point where a Teflon stir bar ceased to move.

[0032] Vinyl amine is required for gelation to occur. In that regard, homopolymers of vinyl alcohol did not gel in the presence of sugar at elevated temperature. Homopolymers of vinyl amine or copolymers of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol gelled readily under these conditions. Reducing saccharide (for example, sugar) is also required for gelation—vinyl amine homopolymers and copolymers of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol did not gel without the presence of sugar. Gelation occurs over a wide range of amine:sugar (saccharide) ratios.

[0033] Gelation occurred in the presence of 2-deoxy-D-ribose, suggesting that the osazone mechanism was not responsible for crosslinking. On the other hand, gelation did not occur when using sucrose, suggesting that Maillard chemistry (known from food chemistry) is involved in the crosslinking and hence gelation. Prior studies suggest that no mutagenicity results from products of the Maillard reaction when disaccharides are employed. Lactose, for example, allows for gelation in the compositions and systems of the present invention. Although it is believed that the Maillard chemistry is involved in gelation in the compositions of the present invention, the present invention is not limited to any particular mechanism of gelation.

[0034] Increasing temperature increases the rate of the reaction/gelation. In several experiments with a 12% (wt) amine sample, for example, the time for gelation dropped with increasing temperature from 335 minutes (50° C.) to 113 minutes (60° C.) to 50 minutes (70° C.) to 24 minutes (80° C.) to less than 10 minutes at (90° C.). FIG. 1 illustrates graphically the effect of increasing temperature on gel time for a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol having 6% (wt) vinyl amine. Addition of acid (for example, H₂S0₄) slowed the gelation reaction, while addition of a base (for example, NaOH) accelerated the gelation reaction (see FIG. 2).

[0035]FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate studies of the effect of mole ratio of sugar to copolymer (6% by weight amine) for D-glucose and lactose, respectively. In general, sugar concentration only slightly effected gel time. Moreover, the type of sugar used did not greatly effect gelation time. Lactose was found to be slightly better than D-glucose in these studies.

[0036] A number of experiments were performed to explore the ability of the gel to strengthen wet paper, as summarized below. The PVOH/PVAm:glucose 2:1 sample clearly showed improved wet strength over PVOH/PVAm without sugar and is substantially superior to the control paper and to glucose coated paper. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of the compositions of the present invention in improve the wet strength and the dry strength of paper.

[0037] In the experiments of Tables 1 and 2, a sample of PVOH/PVAm (12 wt % vinyl amine; medium molecular weight) was dissolved at 4 wt % in distilled water. A sample of glucose was also dissolved at 4 wt % in distilled water. These samples were applied to Whatman #4 filter paper to provide even coverage. TABLE 1 Dry Result Coat Weight (weight of Dry Strength Sample Description coating/weight of paper) (lbs) Control Paper 0 5.43 PVOH/PV Am 0.124 15.3 Glucose 0.137 4.1 PVOH/PV Am:glucose 2:1 0.118 11.7

[0038] TABLE 2 Wet Results Coat Weight (weight of Dry Strength Sample Description coating/weight of paper) (lbs.) Control Paper 0 0.095 PVOH/PV Am 0.085 0.81 Glucose 0.134 0.128 PVOH/PV Am:glucose 0.081 3.26

[0039] Experimental

[0040] Materials. All chemicals were used without further purification. Poly(vinylalcohol) (98-99%, M_(w) 31,000-50,000), D-glucose (A.C.S. reagent) and 2-deoxy-D-ribose (97%) were purchased from Aldrich Chemical Co. Sucrose (A.C.S. reagent) was purchased from J. T. Baker Chemical. Lactose (A.C.S. reagent) was purchased from E. M. Science. L-ribose (99.5%) was purchased from Acros Organics. The poly(vinylalcohol)/poly(vinylamine) copolymers (6 and 12% amine, medium M_(w)) were donated by Air Products.

[0041] Instrumentation. Infrared spectra (IR) were obtained on an ATI Mattson FTIR spectrometer. Information obtained was used to determine chemical changes occurring during gelation.

[0042] Synthesis of poly(vinylamine). Poly(vinylamine) was synthesized using N-vinyl formamide (NVF). First poly(vinylformamide) (PNVF) was made by combining 100 mL of the NVF monomer, 40 mL of DMSO solvent, 61 mg Vazo 88 initiator (cyclohexane carbonitrile), and 0.5 g RAFT agent in a three-neck flask. The mixture was then heated at 100° C. for ˜2 hours under nitrogen gas with constant stirring and with reflux conditions. After heating, the product was diluted in a 50 mL/50 mL water/ethanol mixture. The product was then precipitated out of solution using acetone. Product was dried overnight in a vacuum oven, redisolved in a 120 mL/50 mL water/ethanol mixture and subsequently precipitated using acetone. The PNVF was hydrolyzed under basic conditions by combining the polymer, concentrated NaOH (5% excess) and distilled deionized water in a round bottom flask. The mixture was then heated at 80° C. for 18 hours, under reflux conditions and with constant stirring. Adding HCl to the cold product solution precipitated the product. The product was then washed with methanol three times and dried in a vacuum oven. HCl was removed by adding aqueous NaOH. This product was precipitated in acetone, dried and then washed with butanol.

EXAMPLES Example 1

[0043] An aqueous solution was prepared by dissolving 7.5 g D-glucose and 2.5 g poly(vinylalcohol) (PVOH) into distilled, deionized water in a 25 mL volumetric flask. The solution was clear with some undissolved polymer. It was, however, pourable. The solution was transferred to a round bottom flask and heated to 80° C. in an oil bath. Heating was done with constant stirring and under reflux conditions. Upon completion the solution remained clear with all polymer dissolved and was still pourable.

Example 2

[0044] Prior studies suggest that an aqueous solution of PVOH and D-glucose could be used to form hydrogels by using freezing/thawing cycles. See Yamaura, K.; Fukada, M.; Tanaka, T.; Tanigami, T. J. of Applied Polymer Science. 1999, 74, 1298-1303. To study this effect, a solution was prepared as in example 1. Heating was carried out using the same procedure as in example 1, but was allowed to reach a temperature of 90° C. The aqueous solution was then placed in a −10° C. freezer over 48 hours. After thawing the solution at room temperature for 1 hour a weak, white hydrogel had formed. The gel was then placed back in the freezer for 24 hours and then thawed at room temperature for 1 hour. After which, the gel appeared visibly stronger. This gel was found to be soluble in water heated up to 49° C. Neither swelling nor dissolution was noted when placed in 1M HCl.

Example 3

[0045] Prior studies further suggest that D-glucose was not necessary for the gelation of poly(vinylalcohol) using the process in example 2. See Yamaura, K.; Karasawa, K. I.; Tanigami, T.; Matsuzawa, S. J. of Applied Polymer Science. 1994, 51, 2041-2046. To study such gelation, a 2.5 g of PVOH was dissolved in distilled, deionized water in a 25 mL volumetric flask. Heating was carried out using the same procedure as in example 1, but was allowed to reach a temperature of 95° C. The solution was then placed in the freezer at −25° C. for 48 hours. After 1 hour of thawing at room temperature a gel, similar in appearance to the gel in Example 2, was produced. The inability of PVOH to form hydrogels without the freezing/thawing cycle indicated that the amine groups on copolymers of PVOH and Poly(vinylamine) in the compositions of the present invention are responsible for gelation.

Example 4

[0046] Poly(vinylamine) (PVA) was also used in trying to make gels. An excess of PVA was used in the case that some butanol was still present in the synthesized polymer. 2.8 g of PVA was dissolved in distilled, deionized water in 25 mL volumetric glassware leaving room for the addition of D-glucose and more water. A heating gun was used, as needed, to dissolve polymer. D-glucose was dissolved in some water in a separate container, added to the other solution and diluted as necessary. This solution was orange in color and pourable. Heating was carried out using the same procedure as in example 1, but was allowed to reach a temperature of 100° C. A rubbery, dark brown gel began to appear at ˜95° C. This gel swelled when exposed to both excess water and 1M HCl.

Example 5

[0047] To ensure that the discoloration observed in Example 4 was a result of gelation and not merely oxidation of the amine, Example 4 was repeated under nitrogen gas. This was done using a three neck flask, rubber septum and needle. The rubbery, dark brown gel appeared at ˜93° C. again. This gel was slightly lighter in color than the gel of Example 5. This gel swelled in water and in 1M HCl.

Example 6

[0048] To study whether a sugar was necessary for gelation, 1.25 g of PVA was dissolved in water in a 25 mL volumetric flask. This solution was then heated to 95° C. using the procedure of Example 1. No gelation was observed.

Example 7

[0049] The poly(vinylalcohol)/poly(vinylamine) copolymer that was used for the experiments set forth in Examples 7 through 24 contained 12% amine groups. 2.5 g of the copolymer followed by 7.5 g of D-glucose were dissolved in distilled deionized water using the procedure outlined in Example 4. This solution was then transferred to a three-neck flask and heated in an oil bath to 100° C. Heating was carried out under reflux conditions, with constant stirring and under argon gas. A strong, bright yellow gel appeared at ˜90° C. This gel swelled when exposed to excess water and to 1M HCl.

Example 8

[0050] The procedure in example 7 was repeated using 2.5 g D-glucose. This is a 1:2 mole ratio of amine groups to sugar molecules. Gelation began to occur at ˜90° C. This gel was strong and yellow. It swelled in water and 1M HCl.

Example 9

[0051] The procedure of Example 7 was repeated using 1.25 g D-glucose (a 1:1 mole ratio of amine groups to sugar molecules). Gelation began to occur at ˜90° C. This gel was a pale yellow color. This gel is still strong but not as strong as the previous two examples. Swelling was noted in water and 1M HCl. IR spectra were taken of the aqueous solution before heating and of this gel afterwards. Before heating a strong peak was seen around 1680 cm⁻¹, which is typical of a primary amine peak. After heating this peak became much smaller, more typical of a secondary amine. Another unidentified peak appeared after heating at ˜1090 cm⁻¹.

Example 10

[0052] The procedure of Example 7 was repeated using 0.61 g D-glucose (a 2:1 mole ratio of amine groups to sugar molecules). Gelation began to occur at ˜95° C. This gel was strong yet somewhat sticky and a clear yellow color. Swelling was noted when exposed to water and to 1M HCl.

Example 11

[0053] The procedure of Example 7 was repeated using 0.31 g D-glucose (a 4:1 mole ratio of amine groups to sugar molecules). Gelation began to occur at ˜100° C. The gel produced was sticky and almost clear in color. This gel swelled when exposed to excess water and to 1M HCl.

Example 12

[0054] The procedure of Example 7 was repeated using 0.16 g D-glucose (a 8:1 mole ratio of amine groups to sugar molecules). Gelation began to occur at ˜100° C. This gel was sticky and clear. Swelling occurred when exposed to water and to 1M HCl.

Example 13

[0055] To test for the possibility of an osazone mechanism L-ribose was used instead of D-glucose. The procedure followed was similar to that of example 9 (using a 1:1 mole ratio and the same conditions). 1.02 g of L-ribose was used. Gelation occurred at ˜85° C. This gel was strong, sticky and bright orange in color. This gel swelled when exposed to excess water and to 1M HCl.

Example 14

[0056] As part of the aforementioned test of reaction mechanism 2-deoxy-D-ribose was also used instead of D-glucose. The procedure of Example 9 was once again followed, this time using 0.91 g of 2-deoxy-D-ribose. Gelation occurred at ˜85° C. This gel was also strong and bright orange. The gelation of 2-deoxy-D-ribose indicates that the osazone reaction is not taking place since it would be unable to occur as a result of the structure of this sugar. Without limitation to any particular reaction mechanism in the present invention, a Maillard reaction mechanism is thus indicated. The gel of this example swelled when exposed to excess water and to 1M HCl.

Example 15

[0057] Prior studies show that little or no mutagenicity results from the Maillard reaction when disaccharides, such as lactose, are involved. See, for example, Brands, C. M. J.; Alink, G. M.; vanBoekel, M. A. J. S.; Jongen, W. M. F. J. Agric. Food Chem. 2000, 48, 2271-2275. A summary of the Maillard reaction is provided in FIG. 6. Thus lactose is a good sugar for use in the present invention. The procedure of Example 9 was used, with 2.45 g of lactose. A strong, orange gel formed at ˜100° C. Solubility tests were not carried out on this gel.

Example 16

[0058] Sucrose is a disaccharide lacking active carbonyl groups. Therefore, sucrose would not be able to form a gel via the Maillard reaction. See Baynes, J. W.; Monnier, V. M. “The Maillard Reaction in Aging, Diabetes and Nutrition” 1989; and O'Brien, J.; Nursten, H. E.; Crabbe, M. J. C.; Ames, J. M. “The Maillard Reaction in Foods and Medicine” 1998. The procedure from example 9 was once again repeated. In this example, time 2.33 g of sucrose was used. The temperature was taken up to 115° C. and gelation was not observed.

Example 17

[0059] Constant temperature experiments were also carried out. 2.5 g of copolymer followed by 1.25 g of D-glucose were dissolved in water using a 25 mL volumetric flask as outlined in Example 4. Heating took place in an oil bath that was maintained at a constant temperature of 80° C. Heating was done under reflux conditions, under argon gas and with constant stirring. Gelation time was noted as the time when the gel became too viscous for the stir bar to move. In this example gelation time was found to be 23.5 minutes. The gel produced was a clear yellow and sticky. This gel dissolved in water.

Example 18

[0060] The procedure of Example 17 was repeated using an oil bath at 70° C. Gelation time was noted as 49.5 minutes. This gel was weaker and stickier than the previous one. This gel also dissolved in water.

Example 19

[0061] The procedure of Example 17 was repeated using an oil bath at 60° C. Gelation time was noted as 113.25 minutes. This gel was weaker and stickier than the previous one. This gel also dissolved in water.

Example 20

[0062] The procedure of Example 17 was repeated using an oil bath at 50° C. Gelation time was noted as 335.0 minutes. This gel was weaker and stickier than the previous one. This gel also dissolved in water.

Example 21

[0063] To test the effect of pH on gelation, the procedure of Example 17 was repeated under acidic conditions. Three drops of concentrated H₂SO₄ were added to the aqueous solution. After 120.0 minutes the solution had turned slightly yellow and appeared to be a pourable gel. This gel was also soluble in water.

Example 22

[0064] Basic conditions were also examined using the procedure in example 17. 0.04 g of concentrated NaOH were added to the aqueous solution. Gelation was noted after 18.2 minutes. This gel was similar in appearance to that produced in Example 17. This gel was slightly soluble in excess water.

Example 23

[0065] The gels studied in FIGS. 1 through 5 were synthesized in a consistent manner. In that regard, 21.25 grams of copolymer was weighed out into a beaker and set aside for both 6 wt % and 12 wt % amine copolymers. The sugar was also weighed out in a beaker and set aside. The amount of sugar added depended on the mole ratio of sugar to amine, which is indicated in Table 3 below for each ratio. TABLE 3 Molar Ratio (sugar:amine) Amount of Sugar And Type of Sugar (grams) 1:1 glucose 5.23 2:1 glucose 10.46 4:1 glucose 20.92 1:2 lactose 5.23 1:1 lactose 10.46 2:1 lactose 20.92

[0066] The saccharide (sugar):amine rations set forth in Table 3 and FIGS. 3 and 4 are merely the reciprocal of amine:sugar mole ratios.

[0067] Deionized water was measured out in a tall form beaker to approximately 425 mL. A small amount (˜¼) of this water was put into another tall form beaker and the sugar was added and mixed thoroughly. The bulk of the water was used to mix with the copolymer. The mixture of copolymer/water was then put into an oil bath and mixed to allow the copolymer to dissolve. Next, the sugar/water mixture was added into the copolymer mixture and the time was started. The UL adapter was then lowered into the mixture and the Brookfield viscometer was turned on to a speed of 60 (The Brookfield viscometer had been earlier calibrated with water). The readings form the Brookfield were not recorded until after the time had reached 9 minutes to allow the UL adapter to settle. The time was then recorded after each minute. The only other change in procedure occurred when the NaOH was added [50% (w/w/) NaOH in water solution]. 31 mM of NaOH (or 1 gram of the NaOH in water solution) was added into the sugar/water mixture before adding it to the copolymer mixture.

Example 24

[0068] In several studies of the effect of the compositions of the present invention upon wet and dry strength of paper, a sample of PVOH/PVAm (12 wt % VAm; medium molecular weight) was dissolved at 4 wt % in distilled water. A sample of glucose was also dissolved at 4 wt % in distilled water. These samples were applied to Whatman #4 filter paper from a 6″ roll using a wire wound rod (RDS40) to provide even coverage. 50 grams of the 4 wt % solution of PVOH/PVAm were mixed with 25 grams of the 4 wt % solution of glucose and also coated on the above noted filter paper using a wire wound rod to provide even coverage. The samples were placed in an air circulating oven for 10 minutes at 100° C. The samples were removed and conditioned at 23° C.; 50°/″ RH for 16 hours prior to testing. 1″ wide strips were cut transverse to the filter paper roll direction and cut into two 3″ long specimens for dry tensile testing. Samples were also cut into 3″ long specimens and immersed in water for 30 seconds and tested for wet tensile strength. The results are set forth in Table 1 and 2 above. The sample weights were measured to determine coat weights (amount of additive on the coated paper versus the uncoated paper). Data on an average of four specimens is set forth in Tables 1 and 2. The testing rate was 2 in./min. strain rate (2 in. gage length).

[0069] The foregoing description and accompanying drawings set forth preferred embodiments of the invention at the present time. Various modifications, additions and alternative designs will, of course, become apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing teachings without departing from the scope of the invention. The scope of the invention is indicated by the following claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes and variations that fall within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A composition comprising at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function.
 2. The composition of claim 1 wherein the reducing saccharide is a monosaccharide, a disaccharide or a polysaccharide.
 3. The composition of claim 1 wherein the polymer is partially hydrolyzed poly(N-vinylformamide), partially hydrolyzed vinyl acetate/N-vinylformamide copolymer, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile/N-vinylformamide copolymer, amine functional polyacrylamide, acrylic acid/vinylamine copolymer, maleic anhydride/maleic acid copolymers with N-vinylformamide/vinylamine, N-vinylformamide/vinylamine polymers with vinyl sulfonate comonomer units, allylamine polymer, diallylamine polymer, allylamine/diallylamine copolymer, urea/formaldehyde condensation polymers, melamine/formaldehyde condensation polymers, amidoamine polymers, amine/epichlorohydrin polymers, poly(ethyleneimine), hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) or partially hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline).
 4. The composition of claim 1 wherein the polymer is a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol.
 5. The composition of claim 4 wherein the copolymer is at least 0.5% by weight of vinyl amine.
 6. The composition of claim 4 wherein the copolymer is at least 3% by weight of vinyl amine.
 7. The composition of claim 4 wherein the copolymer is at least 6% by weight of vinyl amine.
 8. The composition of claim 4 wherein the copolymer is at least 12% by weight of vinyl amine.
 9. The composition of claim 4 wherein the mole ratio of amine to reducing saccharide is in the range of approximately 1:4 to approximately 8:1.
 10. The composition of claim 1 further comprising a base.
 11. The composition of claim 10 wherein the base is sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia or calcium carbonate.
 12. The composition of claim 1 wherein the saccharide is at least one of glucose, lactose, or 2-deoxy-D-ribose
 13. A method of increasing the strength of paper comprising the step of contacting the paper with a composition comprising (i) at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein the reducing saccharide is a monosaccharide, a disaccharide or a polysaccharide.
 15. The method of claim 13 wherein the polymer is partially hydrolyzed poly(N-vinylformamide), partially hydrolyzed vinyl acetate/N-vinylformamide copolymer, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile/N-vinylformamide copolymer, amine functional polyacrylamide, acrylic acid/vinylamine copolymer, maleic anhydride/maleic acid copolymers with N-vinylformamide/vinylamine, N-vinylformamide/vinylamine polymers with vinyl sulfonate comonomer units, allylamine polymer, diallylamine polymer, allylamine/diallylamine copolymer, urea/formaldehyde condensation polymers, melamine/formaldehyde condensation polymers, amidoamine polymers, amine/epichlorohydrin polymers, poly(ethyleneimine), hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) or partially hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline).
 16. The method of claim 13 wherein the polymer is a copolymer of vinyl amine and at least one other monomer.
 17. The method of claim 16 wherein the copolymer is at least 0.5% by weight of vinyl amine.
 18. The method of claim 16 wherein the copolymer is at least 3% by weight of vinyl amine.
 19. The method of claim 16 wherein the copolymer is at least 6% by weight of vinyl amine.
 20. The method of claim 16 wherein the copolymer is at least 12% by weight of vinyl amine.
 21. The method of claim 16 wherein the mole ratio of amine to reducing saccharide is in the range of approximately 1:4 to approximately 8:1.
 22. The method of claim 13 wherein the paper is contacted with the composition in the presence of a base.
 23. The method of claim 23 wherein the base is sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia or calcium carbonate.
 24. The method of claim 13 wherein the saccharide is at least one of glucose, lactose, or 2-deoxy-D-ribose.
 25. The method of claim 13 wherein wet paper pulp and the composition are contacted at room temperature or below and subsequently heated to induce gelling.
 26. The method of claim 25 wherein the paper and the composition are heated to a temperature of at least 50° C.
 27. The method of claim 25 wherein the paper and the composition are heated to a temperature of at least 70° C.
 28. The method of claim 25 wherein the paper and the composition are heated to a temperature of at least 90° C.
 29. A hydrogel composition formed from a mixture of at least one hydrophilic polymer containing at least two groups which are independently the same or different a primary amine group or a secondary amine group and at least one saccharide containing a reducible function.
 30. The composition of claim 29 wherein the reducing saccharide is a monosaccharide, a disaccharide or a polysaccharide.
 31. The composition of claim 29 wherein the polymer is partially hydrolyzed poly(N-vinylformamide), partially hydrolyzed vinyl acetate/N-vinylformamide copolymer, hydrolyzed acrylonitrile/N-vinylformamide copolymer, amine functional polyacrylamide, acrylic acid/vinylamine copolymer, maleic anhydride/maleic acid copolymers with N-vinylformamide/vinylamine, N-vinylformamide/vinylamine polymers with vinyl sulfonate comonomer units, allylamine polymer, diallylamine polymer, allylamine/diallylamine copolymer, urea/formaldehyde condensation polymers, melamine/formaldehyde condensation polymers, amidoamine polymers, amine/epichlorohydrin polymers, poly(ethyleneimine), hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline) or partially hydrolyzed poly(2-alkyl-2-oxazoline).
 32. The composition of claim 29 wherein the polymer is a copolymer of vinyl amine and vinyl alcohol.
 33. The composition of claim 32 wherein the copolymer is at least 0.5% by weight of vinyl amine.
 34. The composition of claim 32 wherein the copolymer is at least 3% by weight of vinyl amine.
 35. The composition of claim 32 wherein the copolymer is at least 6% by weight of vinyl amine.
 36. The composition of claim 32 wherein the copolymer is at least 12% by weight of vinyl amine.
 37. The composition of claim 32 wherein the mole ratio of amine to reducing saccharide is in the range of approximately 1:4 to approximately 8:1.
 38. The composition of claim 29 wherein the mixture further comprisesg a base.
 39. The composition of claim 38 wherein the base is sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonia or calcium carbonate.
 40. The composition of claim 29 wherein the saccharide is at least one of glucose, lactose, or 2-deoxy-D-ribose.
 41. The composition of claim 29 wherein the hydrophilic polymer and the reducing saccharide are contacted at approximately a temperature of approximately 25° C. or below and subsequently heated to induce gelling.
 42. The method of claim 41 wherein the hydrophilic polymer and the reducing saccharide are heated to a temperature of at least 50° C.
 43. The method of claim 25 wherein hydrophilic polymer and the reducing saccharide are heated to a temperature of at least 70° C.
 44. The method of claim 25 wherein hydrophilic polymer and the reducing saccharide are heated to a temperature of at least 90° C. 